The Lithuanian president was informed about the award by phone by the mayor of the German city of Aachen where the Prize is bestowed.
"The president has been awarded for her contribution to Europe's unity," presidential adviser Jovita Neliupšienė told BNS on Saturday.
"This award for the president is not only personal recognition but, first of all, the recognition of entire Lithuania for its contribution to the creation of Europe's unity, which is particularly important as Lithuania is preparing for the EU Presidency in the second half of next year," she said.
The Charlemagne Prize is one of the most prestigious European prizes. It has been awarded once a year since 1950 by the German city of Aachen to people who contributed to the ideals upon which it has been founded. It commemorates Charlemagne, ruler of the Frankish Empire and founder of what became the Holy Roman Empire, who resided and is buried in Aachen. Traditionally, the award is given to the recipient on the Ascension holiday in a ceremony in the town hall of Aachen.
The recipients of the Charlemagne Prize include former UK Prime Minister Winston S. Churchill, Robert Schuman, the European Commission, Spanish King Juan Carlos, former US President Bill Clinton, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and others.
The award ceremony is held on Europe Day, 9 May.
